Living by Lake Keowee is a dream, but even the best lake days deserve a change of scenery every now and then. As summer winds down and fall settles into Upstate South Carolina, it's the perfect time to hit the road and explore some of the charming towns just a short drive away. Crisp mornings, scenic mountain drives, cozy restaurants, and unique local shops make this one of the best seasons for a day trip.
Lake Keowee is ideally located just a short drive from several picturesque mountain towns waiting to be explored. Join me on a journey as we discover the perfect day trips from Lake Keowee, where dining, shopping, and unforgettable vibes come together.
The Recipe for the Perfect Town
First, I think it's important to dive into what I believe makes the perfect Hallmark-esque town. These are the three things I rank every town on: dining, shopping, and the overall vibe.
Before we set off on our day trips, let's talk about what makes a town truly charming. For me, it's all about the trifecta: dining, shopping, and vibes. These three elements can make or break a small town.
Dining Experience
Picture a mom-and-pop restaurant with a cozy atmosphere that beckons you to stay awhile. Friendly staff, inviting ambiance, and a menu worth talking about, these are the ingredients for the perfect dining experience.
Curated Shops and Unique Finds
No charming town is complete without a shopping scene that leaves a lasting impression. Imagine strolling through streets lined with curated shops, each one telling a unique story. Whether it's outdoor gear, home goods, antiques, or high-end fashion, it's not about the items, it's about the feeling. It's about walking into a shop and being immediately captivated by the presentation. Join me in seeking out those hidden gems that turn shopping into part of the adventure.
The Vibe... It's EVERYTHING
Ever experienced that magical moment when you roll into a new town, park your car, and step out into the unknown? It's that exhilarating feeling when your eyes widen as you take in the downtown scenery. The anticipation builds as you wonder what awaits behind each storefront and soak in the atmosphere.
The town's aesthetics play a huge role. It either draws you in with warmth or leaves you wanting more. Even if the shops are fantastic and the food is top-notch, if the atmosphere is off, everything else loses a little bit of its charm.
Now that you know the three elements of my ideal Hallmark-esque town, let's dive into my favorite day trips from Upstate South Carolina.
Do Not Sleep on Clayton, Georgia
Clayton, Georgia took us completely by surprise, and it's a gem you definitely shouldn't overlook. When we stumbled upon its downtown unexpectedly, I was immediately captivated and knew I had to stop and explore. Little did I know, it would become an obsession.
It's got a charming mountain-town feel infused with the warmth of Southern hospitality. In the fall, the streets become even more beautiful as the leaves begin to change, making it an ideal afternoon destination.
The best part? You can get from the southern tip of Lake Keowee to downtown Clayton in less than an hour. Picture outdoor adventure meeting beautifully curated home décor—that's the unique blend this town offers.
Here are my absolute must-stops whenever I'm back in Clayton:
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The Universal Joint:
This spot is my go-to for lunch. While I'd rate the food a solid 7/8, the atmosphere is a perfect 10. It's the ideal place for great burgers, drinks, and a fun, laid-back vibe. -
Butler Galleries:
Right across from The Universal Joint, Butler Galleries quickly became one of my favorite shops anywhere. With booths curated by nearly twenty vendors, it's the perfect mix of antiques, vintage treasures, and new finds. -
Wander:
No trip to Clayton is complete without visiting Wander. Locally owned and spanning two stories, it's packed with outdoor gear, books, apparel, gifts, toys, and more. If you love spending time outside, don't skip this one. The staff is wonderful too. -
Reeves Ace Hardware:
No, that isn't a typo! This Ace Hardware is unlike anything you've ever seen. It feels like it takes up an entire city block and somehow manages to have everything—from apparel and home décor to kitchen gadgets and seasonal décor.
Cashiers, North Carolina — So Close!
Once I realized this charming Hallmark-esque town is only about a 45-minute drive from the southern end of Lake Keowee, I knew I had to check it out.
We might have arrived a little early, catching the town before most of the shops opened, so we decided to explore the surrounding scenery first—and it absolutely did not disappoint.
Cashiers isn't your traditional walkable downtown. Instead, it offers little pockets of shops tucked throughout the area. You'll hop in and out of your car to explore them, but trust me, it's worth it. The mountain views alone make the drive unforgettable, especially during the fall when the leaves begin showing off.
One of our favorite stops was The Bazar Barn, a second-hand furniture and home décor shop. Not only was it full of incredible finds, but I also learned it's a charity where donated items help support the local community. Next time, I'm definitely bringing my husband's truck (if you know, you know).
We wrapped up our afternoon at Whiteside Brewing.
Initially, Cashiers seemed a little quiet, but once lunchtime rolled around, the entire town came alive. Despite the line stretching out the door, Whiteside Brewing was an easy 10 out of 10. The atmosphere was lively, the food earned a solid 8, and the beer selection was fantastic. The outdoor space is beautiful, and I'm already planning another visit. Every season offers something special, but fall might just be my favorite time to experience this area.
Highlands, North Carolina
Highlands is about an hour from the southern end of Lake Keowee. The drive is winding but absolutely breathtaking, weaving through the mountains until suddenly you arrive in one of the most charming towns you'll ever visit.
This is the definition of a Hallmark town and one that has quickly captured my heart (and secretly sparked my dream of owning a vacation home here someday).
From the moment you arrive—even before stepping out of your car—Highlands is full of irresistible charm. Beautiful streets, historic buildings, flower-filled sidewalks, and mountain scenery create the perfect blend of Southern hospitality and rustic elegance.
A notable presence throughout town is the Old Edwards Inn, which owns much of the surrounding downtown property. Touring this beautiful property remains high on my list because everything about it feels luxurious while still warm and welcoming. My favorite shop, Acorns, is also owned by the Inn and is an absolute gem. From gorgeous home décor to timeless clothing, I could spend hours browsing.
For lunch, we stopped at the Ugly Dog, and I'd recommend it even if only for the hundreds of dog photos covering the walls. It's a fun, relaxed place for lunch that's also very family-friendly.
Highlands definitely has a more upscale feel thanks to its abundance of beautiful boutiques filled with Southern-inspired fashion, home décor, and gifts. If your ideal afternoon includes wandering through unique shops and doing a little window shopping, this destination absolutely belongs on your list.
Ready for Your Next Day Trip?
Living by Lake Keowee offers a dreamlike escape, but one of the best parts about living here is how many incredible destinations are just a short drive away.
Fall is the perfect season to explore charming mountain towns, enjoy scenic drives, browse unique local shops, and linger over lunch at a cozy restaurant. Whether you're drawn to the welcoming streets of Clayton, the hidden gems of Cashiers, or the timeless charm of Highlands, each destination offers its own unforgettable experience.
So grab a friend, fill up the gas tank, and make a day of exploring everything our corner of Upstate South Carolina has to offer.
Do you have a favorite mountain town near Lake Keowee? I'd love to hear where you're headed next!